Press release

Aetna Foundation Supports Local Youth Fitness Donation to HMF FitKids in School Program

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"Good nutrition and physical exercise not only form the building blocks for a lifetime of good health, they also are critical factors in helping children be ready to learn"

FitKids in School provides age-appropriate training guides for students to run a cumulative 26.2 miles, the distance of a marathon, over 6 weeks in school. Students finish the program at the Final Mile, a run and celebration held at Rentschler Field. There, students cross the finish line of their last mile and celebrate at a health and fitness expo with games, activities, and demonstrations that encourage a healthy lifestyle.

Last year, approximately 3,000 students from 27 schools participated in the program free of charge. HMF hopes to grow the program further in 2015 thanks to the generous support of the Aetna Foundation.

“We’ve watched thousands of students experience the enjoyment of crossing the finish line of their final mile and achieving their goal though the HMF FitKids in School program,” said Beth Shluger, Executive Director and CEO of the Hartford Marathon Foundation. “We truly appreciate the support of our generous community partners who help us inspire youth and instill a passion for fitness vital for their long-term wellness.”

“Good nutrition and physical exercise not only form the building blocks for a lifetime of good health, they also are critical factors in helping children be ready to learn,” said Garth Graham, M.D., M.P.H., president of the Aetna Foundation. “We are pleased to support the Hartford Marathon Foundation’s efforts to strengthen this important link.”

The Hartford Marathon Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit organization founded in 1994 to create and manage fitness events that inspire people to be healthy and fit. Located in Glastonbury, Connecticut, the Hartford Marathon Foundation organizes 32 annual athletic events, including the Hartford Marathon, and 25 training programs. For more information, visit HartfordMarathon.com and Facebook.com/HMFevents.

About the Aetna FoundationAetna Foundation, Inc. is the independent charitable and philanthropic arm of Aetna Inc. (NYSE: AET). Since 1980, Aetna and the Aetna Foundation have contributed more than $465 million in grants and sponsorships. As a national health foundation, we promote wellness, health, and access to high-quality health care for everyone. This work is enhanced by the time and commitment of Aetna employees, who have volunteered over 3.8 million hours since 2003. For more information, visit www.aetnafoundation.org.